The local businessman was shocked to learn how many families could go without Christmas presents so decided to offer a helping hand

Staff at the store in The Villages, Florida (pictured) were stunned by Mr Parady's act of kindness

'It just kind of unfolded,' the 40-year-old said.

After overhearing another shopper say she may not be able to afford her outstanding bill, Mr Parady wandered over to the layaway department to see what he could do to help.

'It's kind of a depressing place... over by the bathrooms and bikes,' he told NBC news.

After asking the manager to tally up all the outstanding balances, Mr Parady was shocked to hear that $89,000 worth of gifts hadn't been paid for, and saddened by how many families were struggling to put presents under their tree.

The 40-year-old made a significant dent in the debt however, after swiping a variety of personal credit cards through the machine.

'I came back here and just saw him swiping and swiping,' said his businesspartner, Cindy Nazzaro, who accompanied him on the visit.

He paid the bills of six shoppers who were in the store at the time, as well as paying off half of every bill over $200.

Staff at the store recalled how the holiday hero swiped his card for customers who approached the till to cancel their orders, simply saying 'Merry Christmas' afterwards.